Martha the Mastiff just clinched top honors in the, recently concluded, search for the World’s Ugliest Dog at Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California last Friday, June 23. The competition was tough but her candor and ther incomparable sluggish character made all the judges swoon for her. She’s royalty in her own right!

It’s not really an ugly competition after all

A number of old, blind, warty and Hairless Dogs showed up in their most hideous outfits to vie for the title.

The participating dogs vary in sizes and some even had the strangest faces we could ever imagine. But, these dogs are not there to be criticized and judged by their appearance.

According to the organizers, the main purpose of the event is to showcase the unique beauty of these dogs and have them represented in a happy and accepting way. All in all, the people behind this annual event celebrate the uniqueness of each dog, even if some may not consider them “Westminster-worthy.”

This year's winner was a three year old Neapolitan Mastiff named Martha. The three-year-old Mastiff has already amassed a handful followers in social media who are not pleased with the word “ugly” being associated with her name.

Funny acceptance speech

She even charmed the jury when she snoozed and snored after they proclaimed her the winner.

Judge Kerry Sanders of NBC News asked her this question, “Do you know you just won the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest?”

Shirley Zindler, Martha’s handler, responded on her behalf, “I’d gloat, but I need a nap.”

Let’s get to know Martha the Mastiff more

Meanwhile, the 125-pound Neapolitan mastiff’s win did not come as easy as it looks.

She was able to impress the judges with her sweet personality. Her lumbering posture and dangly jowls are also standout features that nailed her spot.

Like many of her competitors, Martha was also adopted. Her previous parent tried to sell her off through Craigslist until Zindler, founder of the Dogwood Animal Rescue Project, came across the posting and intervened, New York Times reported.

The sweet dog had been almost blind due to neglect. But the rescue team did not give up on her and she did not give in either amid the trials. Later on, she would eventually regain her health after several surgeries and find a new home to care and love her the way she really deserves.

Meet some of Martha’s competitors

Here's a short footage of the event from CBS News.

Here's a photo of her awarding moment.
© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED